The shelf life of a cosmetics product is the amount of time that the product is considered good and safe to use. Though most cosmetic companies test their products’ composition and packaging for stability, there is no clear way to set an expiration date, because the manufacturer tests cannot take into account how the consumer will use and store the products. Since the expiration of a product depends heavily upon the condition of product’s storage and use, expiration dates that are stamped on the package are nothing more than a recommended rule of thumb. Cosmetics may expire long before the suggested date if they have not been properly preserved or handled.

Preserving and Handling Cosmetics

Cosmetic products that have been misused or improperly stored can easily become contaminated. Once a product is contaminated, its composition has been compromised and it is no longer safe to use. Here are some of the most common causes of cosmetic contamination:

·    Sunlight exposure.

·    Exposure to extreme heat or extreme cold.

·    Exposure to bacteria after a product has been left open.

·    Sharing cosmetics.

To preserve and handle your cosmetics properly, always follow the storage directions that appear on the cosmetics package. If no directions appear, you can contact the manufacturer of the product for advice. In general, you should store cosmetics in a cool, dark, and dry place. When applying and using cosmetics, make sure your cosmetic applicators are clean and that the products are properly capped and stored when you have finished with them. If possible, avoid sharing your cosmetics with other people. Sharing make-up and other cosmetics products greatly increases the risk of contamination.

Tossing Out Cosmetics

Cosmetics that have been contaminated may deteriorate long before the expiration or recommended “use by” dates. At the same time, cosmetics that have been stored properly may be good long after these dates. This makes the situation of knowing when to and when not to toss out your cosmetics very confusing.

In general, facial products, such as foundations, can be kept and used for one to two years. Eye area cosmetics, on the other hand, have a shorter shelf life because of repeated microbial exposure. It is best to dispose of any product that you may use near your eye, such as mascara, after six months of use. Certain industry professionals recommend disposing of mascara even sooner, saying that anything more than three months increases the risk of eye infection.

It is best to not take chances with your cosmetics. If something doesn’t seem right, stop using the product immediately. Avoid adding water or mixing cosmetics in an attempt to fix the problem. When in doubt, throw it out.

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